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RAW Expo: Seminars, Studio Sessions and Masterclasses Explained

Any chance to learn could easily be considered a worthy prospect, and the RAW Expo (12-14 June 2015, Helderfontein Estate, Midrand) will be filled with many opportunities to up your photography game. More specifically, on offer at the RAW Expo are Seminars, Masterclasses and Studio Sessions, presented by some of the top professional photographers in South Africa. Not sure what’s the difference? Here’s a handy guide to help you choose.

SEMINARS

Length: 1 Hour

Cost: Free

Inspiration can sometimes be hard to come by; luckily the professional photographers headlining the free seminars can provide this in droves. There are four of these hour long Seminars scheduled per day, with different speakers slated on the Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

It comes as no surprise that the ability to tell a unique story through your photography runs as a theme through many of the Seminars, including action photographer Craig Kolesky’s Storytelling on Location, or wedding photographer Christine Meintjies’ The Art of telling their Story. Other types of photography covered includes wildlife (Greg du Toit), family portraits (Johan Pretorius), DSLR video (Damon Hyland), street photography (I See A Different You), through to the pragmatics of building a small photography business and capitalising on your photographic niche, amongst others.

While you don’t need to pay for them, you do need to arrive at the Seminar stand early enough to get good seating since space is limited.

STUDIO SESSIONS

Length: 1½-2 Hours

Cost: R150

A bit longer than Seminars but not quite as intensive as the Masterclasses, Studio sessions offer in-depth discussions and demonstrations on various photographic topics and business practices. At between 1½ to 2 hours, Studio Sessions will provide the best advice, shooting tips and tricks, and know-how from a range of pro photographers.

Several of these Sessions are highly practical as well, with some speakers demonstrating their techniques. For example, Neil Kirby’s Beauty and Fashion session will combine discussion with a live demonstration, while Ben Bergh will feature one of SA’s top dancers in his live-shoot to demonstrate how to perfectly freeze action. Additionally, there are a number of studio sessions that will focus on the business of photography, which make them a definite must for those looking to, or who already are, generating an income from their passion.

However, space is limited so if you are planning on attending, you are advised to book now. R150 will provide you entrance to each session, while you will receive the same amount back as discount on any Nikon product.

MASTERCLASSES

Length: 2-4 Hours

Cost: R250

Ever wanted to get your hands dirty shooting with a pro photographer, being taught a number of skills to increase your knowledge considerably? Then the hands-on Masterclasses are your best bet. Much like the name suggests, these will offer longer, more intensive coverage of a particular facet of photography. At 2-4 hours each, there will be two a day, a morning Masterclass and an afternoon one, with a one hour break between the two if you plan on attending both.

The topics being covered by the pro’s leading the classes are comprehensive, to say the least. For example, Seagram Pearce takes attendees through the entire photographic process, from planning the shoot to executing it with lighting considerations and post-production. In another, Craig Kolesky goes technical, delving into the world of light source, such as speedlights and reflectors, focusing on mobile, practical solutions.

At R250 each, it’s a bargain for the amount of knowledge you can expect to gain, plus Masterclass attendees will receive R250 off any Nikon product per Class booked. Booking is essential to ensure your place.

THE CHANCE TO LEARN

Whether it is Seminars, Studio sessions or Masterclasses that capture your attention, or a combination of all three, there is certainly going to be ample chance to learn, to glean inspiration and to potentially jump-start your photographic journey at the RAW Expo.

To download the complete programme for the RAW Expo as PDF, click here.